There is already a strong Kiwi influence within the Ospreys squad, with Jason Spice, Adrian Cashmore and Damian Karauna currently at the Liberty Stadium.

Spice is the incumbent at scrum-half and will contest the number nine shirt with Marshall.

The Daily Mail claimed that Wasps were prepared to pay Marshall around a third of the £160,000 a year he received at Leeds.

Wasps chief executive David Davies said of their failed swoop: "We did our best but it wasn't to be."

Marshall had a year to run on his two-year deal at Leeds but asked to be released after their relegation was confirmed earlier this month.

That could mean the Ospreys having to pay a transfer fee on top of Marshall's wages, meaning some cost-cutting elsewhere in the squad.

The Kiwi joined the Tykes at the start of last season.

"I have enjoyed my experience at Leeds immensely this year and I would like to thank the players, coaches and supporters for the way in which they have welcomed me and supported me throughout the season," Marshall said.

"I sincerely wish them a swift return to the Guinness Premiership next season.

"But I am a very ambitious, competitive individual and I look forward to furthering my ambitions with the Ospreys."